Pinus nigra austriaca (Austrian or Black Pine)

Recognisable throughout Britain with its blue/grey needles and sculptural shape, this pine is suitable for any soil - including chalk. Its also happy on exposed, cold sites. Grows to 20ft after 15 years.

Excels in almost any conditions - as long as it has enough light to do its thing. 'By seed'.

N.B. When clipping several plants with the same tool, have a bucket containing a 5% bleach solution and swish your blades around for 30 seconds between plants to sterilise them. This will help avoid the chance of cross contamination of disease.

As with all woody plants, plant high, exposing as much of the taper at the base of the trunk as possible. Allowing soil to accumulate round the base of a tree can be fatal. Keep very well watered when first planted.